Magnolia

4.1

Dubai's best vegetarian is a world away from your average nut roasts.

With the array of delicious hummous (or should that be hummouses?) and Arabic salads available across town, the vegetarian is fairly well looked after in Dubai. However, before Magnolia arrived in the gorgeous setting the Al Qasr hotel, there was never a gourmet spot for the non-meat fan to enjoy. Forget nut roasts, this is a class above. And, even without meat on the menu, carnivores shouldn't shy away.

Food and drink

4.2

90%

Service

4.4

90%

Food and drink

4.2

90%

Value for money

3.9

90%

Ambience

4.6

90%

Location

4.7

90%

Food and drink

Alongside veggie favourites of lentil and tofu, Magnolia offers far more curious additions, including aromatic fennel and an outstanding geranium creme caramel. The menu - which is something of a beast - varies depending on the season, but always seems to surprise and delight. Enjoy.

Recommended dishes

As this varies on the season, it's difficult to recommend a particular dish. The taster menu is a good option, especially as the main menu is slightly daunting at times.

Ambience

Romantic and relaxing, Magnolia sits by the side of the (manmade) waterways of the Al Qasr hotel, a setting that instantly adds to the intimate atmosphere. The fact that you can only get there by gondola is another romantic addition.

Service

Friendly and attentive, from the second you step off the gondola to the point when you wobble back on.

Location

Magnolia is hidden amid the winding Venetian-themed waterways of the Al Qasr hotel, part of the sprawling Madinat Jumeirah complex (but a world away from its bustling bars and restaurants). You can only get there via one of the many gondolas, which is a nice touch.

Price advice

Fancy vegetarian doesn't come cheap, and most mains will set you back around 100 dirhams, and organic wines around 200 dirhams.

Tables to book

If you can get one by the water, then great, but if not, not to worry.